Abstract: The invention facilitates individual selection and even field replacement of individual component-carrying contacts in a multicontact electrical connector. On a modular circuit-by-circuit basis, each circuit can be individually guarded against overvoltages, undesired frequencies, etc.; and in event of damage to a protection component, the protection can be easily renewed for any individual circuit in just a few minutes. An overvoltage-bypassing diode or other electrical component is positioned within a central cavity that extends axially within the body of a cylindrical contact--i.e., either a male pin or female receptacle. The component is oriented axially in the cavity. Because the bypassing component is physically protected within the cavity, it is much less vulnerable to physical and electrical damage in installation and service than in prior component-carrying contacts.